Petty Island will become a New Jersey Natural Land Trust Preserve in the near future. There is no plan for most of the island except for an environmental education center. We propose using 50 of the 300+ acres for a community food forest. It would be called PIC, or Petty Island Community Food Forest and it would be the largest food forest in the country, providing many benefits.

What is a food forest?  First, forests are complex ecosystems made mostly of trees that buffer the earth and support many forms of life. Trees are an important component of the environment because they clean the air, cool it on hot days, conserve heat at night, and act as excellent sound absorbers.  Food forests are low-maintenance, sustainable, plant-based food production and agroforestry systems that incorporate fruit and nut trees, shrubs, herbs, vines, and perennial vegetables, which produce food for humans.  Many edible plants grow in New Jersey! Starting with the canopy and low tree layers, there are apple, pear, cherry, peach, plum, nectarine, fig, persimmon, walnut, and pecan trees.

Camden City has been identified as a food desert, meaning that residents do not have access to affordable healthy food. Petty Island Community food forest would provide free healthy food to nearby residents to help with food insecurity. Because PIC Food Forest would be the largest in the country it would create bragging rights and tourism for Camden County. The food forest would also keep Petty Island wild and natural, providing a habitat for wildlife and insects, including pollinators.  PIC could also provide educational programs about where food comes from. It would increase public awareness about seasonal fruits, vegetables, and nuts. The food forest would support biodiversity in an otherwise urban setting. It would also promote pride in the community and bring people together.  

If you agree that NJ Natural Land Trust should designate 50 acres for a community food forest on Petty Island, then please sign this petition. Thanks!